As temperatures are expected to climb this bank holiday weekend, many Brits are preparing their barbecues. However, vets have issued a crucial health alert for pet owners. The Met Office forecasts sunny skies and temperatures potentially reaching 30°C across parts of the UK, making it an ideal time for outdoor grilling. Yet specialists from Medivet and Partners are cautioning dog owners about the risks associated with typical BBQ meats, which can trigger pancreatitis in dogs.
Keep Toxic Foods Out of Reach
Dr Rhian Littlehales, clinical governance director at Medivet and Partners, has outlined the primary hazards. She emphasises the danger of seasonings such as onion and garlic, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Owners are advised to avoid these seasonings altogether if they plan to share cooked meat with their pets. "Many favourite BBQ meats can pose risks to pets, and whilst it can be tempting to sneak them a treat, cooked and uncooked fat trimmings can cause pancreatitis—an inflammation of the pancreas that requires immediate veterinary attention," she said. "Be mindful of the seasonings on popular BBQ products, as common ingredients like onion and garlic are toxic, and many pre-prepared seasonings are high in salt, which can lead to salt toxicosis or hypernatremia."
Warning signs of food-related poisoning in pets include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, high temperature, loss of appetite, tremors, and seizures. "Peckish pets will look for opportunities to steal scraps from the grill, but remember that pets should never eat raw meat, which also poses a risk to humans. If your dog does get hold of raw meat, prevent them from licking you to avoid the spread of bacteria," Dr Littlehales added. She urges owners to contact their local vet immediately if they suspect their pet has consumed any toxins.
Clear Away Choking Hazards
Beyond food, utensils like skewers can be fatal if ingested by dogs. They can damage the mouth, cause tears in the stomach lining or intestines, and lead to internal bleeding. Corn cobs are a serious choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages, while bones can splinter and become lodged or cause internal damage. "Always dispose of choking hazards immediately to ensure they are inaccessible to curious pets," Dr Littlehales advised.
Avoiding Burns
Pet owners should keep charcoal and gas canisters out of reach and ensure pets stay at a safe distance from the hot BBQ, as charcoal grills can spit unexpectedly and cause burns. "Even after cooking, a BBQ can stay hot for some time, so make sure your pet does not explore near the BBQ looking for scraps," she said.
Keeping Pets Cool in Warm Weather
During hot weather, ensure pets have plenty of water by placing bowls throughout the home and garden. Dr Littlehales recommends applying pet-friendly sun cream to sensitive areas such as the nose, lips, and tips of the ears, and keeping pets out of the sun during the hottest part of the day to minimise the risk of sunburn and heatstroke.
